Inspection stations are locations where parents and caregivers can go to receive one-on-one tutorial instruction on the proper use and installation of child restraints. The objective of this project was to identify and describe the characteristics of model child safety seat inspection stations so that safety professionals can make better strategic and resource allocation decisions for implementation of inspection stations. Seven geographically diverse child passenger safety inspection station programs with a cross section of types of sponsors were selected as study sites. The sponsoring agencies included a law enforcement agency, fire department, automobile dealership, community organisation, retail child speciality store, and a medical facility. The seventh study site was a program that administered a network of inspection stations on behalf of a State Highway Safety Office. Careful planning and consideration of many issues is critical for a manageable and successful child safety seat inspection station program. Observations of the study sites and recommendations by site staff resulted in core recommendations for those considering initiating such a program. These recommendations include: determining the need for the service; evaluating financial, personnel, equipment, and other resources available from both the sponsoring agency and from the community; securing the firm commitment of agency administrators; identifying short term and long term funding options; allowing adequate training and start-up time; and seeking funding support from community groups. Challenges identified by the study sites include: identifying and training certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians; locating appropriate sites for inspections; developing operating schedules; addressing potential liability issues; securing ongoing funding sources; conducting promotional outreach; and developing an evaluation/review system for station services. (Author/publisher)
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